As the weather begins to heat up, people across the Surf Coast are being encouraged to help prevent mosquitoes from breeding around the home.
Surf Coast Shire Council will monitor and treat mosquito infestations across the region as favourable breeding conditions produce troublesome numbers of insects.
Councillor Phoebe Crockett said hotspots such as Anglesea were in focus by council for regular ground-based treatments with environmentally friendly larvicides.
“Covering up is especially important when mozzies are most active early in the morning and at dusk,” she said.
“It can’t eliminate all mosquitoes, but can make big impacts on numbers and will continue throughout summer.
“We encourage people to identify and get rid of potential breeding sites around their homes, and to protect themselves and their families from bites.
“They can do this by wearing light coloured, loose-fitting clothing covering arms and legs, and using effective repellents containing active ingredients like DEET or Picaridin.
“The conditions this year are proving ideal for mosquitoes to breed in abundance in some areas, and our treatment program is responding accordingly, increasing treatments as required.”
Council’s monitoring program will include night light trapping, with specimens sent for laboratory analysis to identify mosquito types and any diseases carried.
Residents can help reduce mosquito numbers around homes by removing stagnant water, ensuring rainwater tank openings are covered, putting sand around pot plants and keeping gutters, fish ponds and swimming pools well-maintained.
